Computer Science

The computer scientist is a professional who must be prepared to apply his or her skills, knowledge and creativity in a rapidly changing field. The bachelor of science in computer science at CU Denver prepares students for such creative work. The emphasis is on fundamental concepts and basic principles with a long useful life.

The computer science and program is ABET accredited.

The Program Educational Objectives (PEO) of the Computer Science undergraduate program are to produce graduates who:

• Advance professionally as productive, practicing professionals in computer science and related careers through the continued development of their expertise and skills;
• Further develop their knowledge, skill set, and career opportunities through graduate education and/or professional studies.
• Function effectively as a part of a team to succeed in their professional careers.

The required minimum number of semester hours for the bachelor of science degree is 128.

The BS-CS program must enable its students to attain, by the time of graduation:

a) An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline

b) An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution

c) An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs

d) An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal

e) An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities f) An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

g) An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society

h) Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development

i) An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

j) An ability to apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices.

k)  An ability to apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.

Freshman admission consideration for both in-state and out-of-state students is based primarily upon:

1. Quality and number of high school courses (units) attempted (a rigorous academic program of study is preferred)
2. The admission index, which is a numeric score calculated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education based on GPA or rank in class and ACT or SAT test scores.
3. Optional personal essay and letters of recommendation. Though not required, a personal statement or essay and/or letters of recommendation may be considered in the admissions review process

General Admission

You are a strong candidate for general admission if:

1. Your index is 93 or higher
2. You have completed all HEAR requirements AND have no more than two MAPS unit deficiencies

TEST SCORES: ACT/SAT

Results are mandatory for international students who have graduated from a U.S. high school or those seeking freshman admission directly to the College of Engineering and Applied Science programs. For engineering students, admission to CU Denver is still possible without these scores by way of the Pre-Engineering program in the College of Liberal Arts and Science.

TEST SCORES: TOEFL, IELTS, OR PTE

Applicants will be considered to have obtained the required English language proficiency if they meet satisfactory scores (below) or one of the additional options:

SCORE REQUIREMENTS:

TOEFL

Minimum TOEFL Score Accepted: 75 IBT / 537 PBT

IELTS

Minimum IELTS Score Accepted: 6.5

The TOEFL/IELTS requirement can be waived if an applicant has graduated from the ESL Academy. Information regarding other considerations for exemption, including country of citizenship/origin, and special circumstances can be found here. Please note that some graduate level programs will require a higher score on the TOEFL/IELTS and applicants should consult the department for additional details

PTE ACADEMIC

Minimum PTE Academic Score Accepted: 51

TThe Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is currently in a pilot review at the University of Colorado Denver. We will accept a 51 PTE Academic score with the following subscores:

The University of Colorado Denver offers a number of scholarship opportunities for students.

Undergraduate engineering students can apply for scholarships designated specifically for engineering students as a way to recognize and encourage academic excellence.

In addition, the College of Engineering and Applied Science has several National Science Foundation scholarships available to new and financially eligible CU Denver students enrolled full-time in one of the four engineering majors.